Background Information:

• Places that oral cancer is commonly found are in the:

-Cheek lining

-Floor of the mouth

-Gums

- Roof of the mouth

-Tongue

• Generally, oral cancers begin as white plaque, called leukoplakia, or mouth ulcers.

• Oral cancer usually develops in the flat cells or squamous cells that cover the mouth, tongue and lips.

• It can develop in any part of the oral cavity and in any tissues in the mouth.

  • Cancerous cells are called squamous cell carcinomas.

external image image013.jpg

• Tavels and spreads through the lymphatic system.

• Can spread rapidly if not diagnosed and treated immediately